Raisins “Golden” (size 4)

Description

1. How it is grown and harvested: Uzbekistan is one of the world’s oldest grape-growing regions, and raisin making has been practised here for more than a thousand years. Dry air, little rainfall during the harvest season and long hours of sunshine allow grapes to be dried naturally with minimal risk of spoilage, which gives Uzbek raisins their reputation for clean, intense flavour. Golden raisins are made from selected white seedless grapes grown in the fertile vineyards of Uzbekistan. The grapes are hand-harvested at full maturity, when sugar levels and berry size are at their best. They are then dried using a controlled method designed to preserve a light colour, which gives the finished raisins their characteristic bright golden-yellow shade, plump shape and tender, juicy bite. White seedless grapes grown in Uzbekistan benefit from more than 300 sunny days a year and large differences between day and night temperatures, which help the berries build up natural sugar while keeping a fresh, fruity acidity. This balance is what gives Golden raisins their light, refreshing sweetness.

2. Processing and packaging details: After drying, the raisins are de-stemmed, cleaned, washed and carefully sorted by size and colour so that each lot has a uniform, attractive appearance. Golden raisins are traditionally treated with sulphur dioxide to keep their bright colour; this is a standard, permitted food practice, and the product is labelled accordingly. They are available in Size 1 and Size 4 calibres and are packed in food-grade liners inside export cartons that protect them from moisture and light. Store raisins in a cool, dry place (ideally 5–15 °C, relative humidity below 65%), away from direct sunlight and strong odours. Under these conditions the product keeps its quality for 12 months or more. Natural sugar crystallisation on the surface over time is normal and does not affect quality. Each lot can be supplied with export documentation, including a phytosanitary certificate and certificate of origin, on request.

3. Health benefits and nutrition: Golden raisins provide natural fruit sugars for energy, dietary fibre for healthy digestion, and minerals such as potassium and iron. They also supply small amounts of B vitamins and antioxidant compounds from the grape. Please note: because Golden raisins contain sulphites, they are not suitable for people with sulphite sensitivity. Golden raisins are prized by bakers and confectioners for their colour and softness — perfect for cakes, muffins, scones, panettone-style breads, cookies and desserts. They are also excellent in salads, couscous and rice dishes, granola, yoghurt toppings and premium retail packs where appearance matters.

Typical values. No added sugar or colourants. Contains sulphites.